updated September 1, 2023 · 4min read
When people fall behind on their tax filing obligations, the IRS may eventually file a tax return on their behalf.
That might sound convenient, but it's rarely beneficial. Whenever possible, you're better off filing back taxes on your own (or with the help of a qualified tax professional). Below, we'll explain the benefits of getting caught up on your back taxes and how to file them.
Getting caught up on your tax filing obligations offers several advantages.
If you haven't filed a tax return and the IRS owes you money, you have a limited number of years to claim your refund.
In most cases, you have three years from the tax return's original due date to file a return and claim a refund. If you miss that window, your refund becomes property of the U.S. Treasury.
If you haven't filed a tax return in years, the IRS can prepare an SFR on your behalf and send you an invoice for the tax it says is due. The problem is, while the IRS gets copies of 1099s and W-2s reporting your income, it doesn't have much information on your deductions. For example, suppose you gave money to charity, had deductible business expenses, and paid for self-employed health insurance. The IRS doesn't have that information, so those deductions are left off entirely.
As a result, it's almost guaranteed that you'll owe more with an SFR than you would if you prepare your own tax return (or get help from a professional).
The IRS has collection powers that many other debt collectors don't have. If you don't file a tax return and pay the tax you owe, the IRS can garnish your wages, levy your bank account, place a tax lien on your home or other property, and even revoke your passport.
Typically, the IRS is willing to work with taxpayers who make an effort to get caught up on their tax filing obligations. So, filing back taxes may help you avoid more drastic collection efforts.
Even if you haven't filed or paid taxes in years, it's possible to get caught up. Here's how.
If you have all your tax documents and just haven't filed yet, this step will be easy. However, if you lost your tax records or just haven't been diligent about keeping your records, this might take a little more work. Fortunately, you have options.
You may not be able to recreate every tax record you're missing, but this should be a good start.
Most online tax software programs allow you to file previous year returns, and your tax professional can file back tax returns as well. However, you will need to print out and mail the forms, as e-filing prior year returns is usually not an option.
There are generally two reasons the IRS might consider waiving your penalties:
Call the IRS at 1-800-829-1040 to request penalty abatement or have your tax professional send a letter explaining the circumstances.
If you can afford to pay your back taxes, send a check with your tax return. Otherwise, the IRS will typically give you more time to pay. You can apply online for an IRS installment agreement or learn more about the IRS's Fresh Start Program.
If you need help filing back taxes, requesting penalty abatement, or navigating your payment options, work with a qualified tax professional. They can help you better understand your options and negotiate with the IRS on your behalf.
by Janet Berry-Johnson
A freelance writer with a background in accounting and income tax planning and preparation for individuals and small ...
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